If you are an introvert or extrovert, feels he has the gift of gab or just do not know how to make small talk, networking know-how is very important to your business success. There is a business idea that I think most of us Subscribe to saying that "all things being equal, people do business with and refer to those who know, like and trust." And the key to this is, obviously, be able to develop relationships.

Think of networking as cultivating mutually beneficial, win-win. To win-win, has to be give and take (note the emphasis on giving). Networking should not be seen as "events" where you will sell your business. When effective networking is taking place, the parties involved actively share ideas, information, resources, etc.

Ok, so you know you should be networkingit is one of the activities of generating more cost-effective lead when used wisely, appropriately and professionally. But perhaps that seems easier said than done. Here is a seven-step plan to get really going with networking for your business.

1. Take a look at several groups to find the best chemistry and perceived value. Most groups allow you to come and visit at least a few times before having to join. Go and ask to know why others have joined and what value they get out of belonging.

Resist the temptation to go alone to join the Chamber of Commerce, just because everyone says that's what you have to do. If that is not where the target group can be found, then you could be losing a considerable amount of time (and money).

I'm not saying no to joining the Chamber. Just to be clear about what you would like to get out of this or any other group. If it comes to finding potential clients or referral sources, then you need to be networked, where resources can be found.

2. When you find a group or two, join and attend all the meetings you can. Do not go once or twice expecting things to happen and then, if not quit. Building mutually beneficial, win-win will take some time.

The contacts you make your face constantly see and hear your message. Continuous contact with others over time will open opportunities to explore and learn more about other people's thoughts, ideas and skills in their respective businesses.

You know, like, in general, and trust only occurs over time. Be regular and persistent will bear fruit.

3. Involved -. VisibleDo everything you can to make you more visible within the organization. Volunteers to help with meetings, on committees, or become a leader or council member.

Being involved a couple of things for you and your business. First, you'll have more opportunities to make connections and meet some of the contacts we have made it even better. Second, the higher the visibility you have in the group, the less you have to work to make new connections. Instead, as new people come into the group, it is likely that you seek, and to be seen as a leader within the organization.

4. Keep your contacts informed circles. Do not just assume that a person running once a month (or even once a week), will start doing business with you or send your way. It is necessary to let them know what is happening when you're not in that particular group in order to inform and educate them.

Send invitations to events or open days. Email or letters to share great news or success stories, especially anything of importance to them or their networks of contacts. If you believe you have valuable ideas, information and resources to share with others, then not only makes sense?

5. Work on making referrals and sharing valuable information. So, you have to be willing to give before you arrive. That means you need to get to know other members and what makes a good prospect for them. What kind of information can have access to that could be useful for them?

At first you may think you do not have much of value to share with others (in addition to your business and what they offer). Some of the key to good to give is not to make assumptions. For example, do not assume that some of the basic resources (eg a website) that you are aware that is familiar to anyone who might be talking only because they are the "experts" in this field. Be willing to ask if they know about the resource and ready to share if they do not.

Want to improve actually provide references? Here's an easy question to ask someone who is connecting to. "How will I know when I find a truly good for you?"

Just the fact that you are willing to explore giving rise you know, like and trust factor.

6. Focus on quality, not quantity, quantity, quantity.Not necessarily on the number of connections made, but the quality of those who do do. They are mutually beneficial, win-win?

Quality connections shall be identifiable because all parties involved actively share ideas, information and resources. It's true you have to spend some time and effort to know the other person (s) and what is important to them. However, there must be clear and actively think about the information or resources you want and need.

Keeping in touch with monitoring and with fewer quality relationships will generally be much more productive than trying to continue with more surface contact.

7. Be persistent, but be patient. The purpose of a networking event does not necessarily need to come up with prospects every time they leave, but to come away with good connections. Networking usually takes time for relationships developed and nurtured.

Do not approach networking as a proposition of fear or a necessary evil to be in business. Relieve pressure on himself and really focus on how you may be able to connect with someone you meet. Focus on them first and find ways to be useful to them. As is known as a connector that will finally be ready to reap what you sow.